Red Fish Fishing Florida: Best Seasons and Times to Catch Big Reds
Fishing for redfish in Florida can be exciting and fun for both beginners and experienced anglers. The waters around Florida are full of life, and catching a big redfish is a thrill that many people look forward to. Red fish fishing Florida offers a chance to enjoy nature, relax on the water, and test your fishing skills. Knowing the best seasons and times to fish can make your trip more successful and enjoyable.
Best Months to Catch Redfish in Florida
The time of year you go fishing can make a big difference in your catch. Different seasons bring the fish to different areas, so it helps to know what to expect.
Spring (March to May): The water begins to warm up, and redfish start moving into shallow flats. Sight casting on flats is perfect during these months.
Summer (June to August): Early mornings and late evenings are the best times to catch redfish. They can often be seen tailing in the shallow waters.
Fall (September to November): This is peak season for catching large redfish. Reds move into bays and passes, and schools of big reds are easier to find.
Winter (December to February): Redfish move to deeper holes and creeks. Fishing in these areas can still be productive, and the water is calmer.
Best Times of Day to Catch Redfish in Florida
Timing during the day is just as important as the season. Redfish are more active during certain times, and fishing during these periods can increase your chances of a catch.
Early Morning: Just after sunrise, redfish are hungry and move closer to shallow flats and grass areas.
Late Afternoon: Before sunset, fish become more active and are easier to spot.
Tidal Movements: Fishing during rising and falling tides can also improve your chances because fish move with the water to feed.
Popular Spots for Catching Redfish in Florida
Florida has many spots where redfish are abundant. Knowing where to fish can save time and improve your success.
Apalachicola Bay: This bay has shallow flats and marshes perfect for redfish. Large schools of redfish are common in this area.
St. George Island: Ideal for sight fishing. The flats around the island are calm and filled with fish during peak seasons.
Coastal Flats and Marshes: These areas attract redfish year-round. Look for oyster beds and grass flats where fish often feed.
Creeks and Passes: Deeper water channels hold redfish during winter months. Fishing in these spots is productive when the flats are less active.
Techniques for Catching Big Reds in Florida
Using the right fishing techniques can make your trip more successful. Here are some simple methods that work well:
Sight Fishing: Look for tails or shadows of redfish moving in shallow water and cast near them with shrimp or soft plastic baits.
Live Bait Fishing: Using live shrimp, mullet, or small crabs near grass flats or oyster beds can attract large redfish.
Artificial Lures: Gold spoons, soft plastics, and topwater plugs work well. Slow retrieves can trigger strikes from hungry fish.
Fly Fishing: Casting crab or shrimp patterns to tailing fish on flats is exciting and effective.
Tips for a Successful Red Fish Fishing Trip
Planning your trip with a few simple tips can make a big difference:
Check the weather and water conditions before heading out. Calm waters make it easier to spot fish.
Bring light tackle and sharp hooks to improve your catch rate.
Use polarized sunglasses to see through the water and spot tailing fish.
Respect local fishing regulations, including size limits and bag limits.
Red Fish Size and What to Expect
Redfish come in various sizes, and knowing what to expect can help you plan your trip:
Slot Fish: Most common size is 18–27 inches.
Bull Reds: Larger redfish can be over 30 inches and weigh 20+ pounds. These are usually found in deeper waters or during peak season.
Catching a big redfish can be a highlight of any fishing trip, and Florida waters are full of opportunities to find these strong and beautiful fish.
Book a Redfish Fishing Adventure in Florida with Woodduck's Guide Service
If you want the best chance to catch big redfish, booking a guided trip is a smart choice. Woodduck's Guide Service offers expert guides who know the local waters, tides, and fish behavior, providing all the gear and tips you need for a successful day on the water. Whether you are new to fishing or experienced, the guides make the trip easy, safe, and fun.
Plan your next adventure now and enjoy the thrill of red fish fishing Florida. From Apalachicola Bay to St. George Island, every trip is a chance to make great memories and catch some amazing fish.

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